Founded 160 years ago in the heart of the northern Côtes du Rhône, Delas Freres today crafts world class wines from both northern and southern Rhône.
Tending the steep sloping vineyards, which total some 30 hectares of vines, the team adapt their growing practices to each plot of vines to let the terroir of the Rhône shine through in the wines.
Crafted by winemaker Jacques Grange (who is originally from Burgundy), the wines from Delas Freres epitomise finesse and elegance. Recent vintages from the vineyards of Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Côte Rôtie, Condrieu, Côtes-du-Rhône and Côtes-du-Ventoux have bee lauded in the press for their intensity of flavour and excellent value.
Soils consist of light schist and gneiss over granite bedrock. The climate is moderately continental, with hot, dry summers.
Grapes are hand picked at optimum ripeness and fermented in open concrete tanks.
Part of the wine is aged in barrels which brings a touch of oak character.
In terms of the flowering, it took place two to three weeks later than in 2015, which ultimately corresponds to a typical year. The first stage of flowering took place in sunny conditions, whereas the second stage unfortunately took place in heavy rain. By the end of summer the vineyards had returned to a perfectly healthy state and ripening went well, particularly after a beneficial rainy spell in early September.
Ruby red in colour with a seductively fruity nose (strawberries, raspberries and blackcurrents) with a hint of wood. On the palate the wine has a full body with firm tannins which are a testiment to the Saint-Joseph terroir.
Best served with marinated or grilled meats, stews, mixed grills, game or cheese.
Robert Parker: 89-91 POINTS
Already wonderfully drinkable. Ripe cherries and toasted almonds provide an almost dessert-like profile, but savoury notes of black olive provide grounding. The supple tannins make this delicious and easy to drink, yet should age though 2025.
Wine Spectator: 92 POINTS
November 30, 2018, James Molesworth
“Lots of singed mesquite and alder notes lead off here, backed by a solid core of red currant and plum fruit. Ample tobacco, bay leaf and iron accents score the finish. Shows lovely range, with good latent grip. Best from 2019 through 2027. 9,078 cases made.”
JamesSuckling.com: 90 POINTS
August 29, 2018, James Suckling
“Some light and bright, red-berry character with dried roses, a hint of black tea and a very fresh, lighter-bodied palate. The acidity sits nicely. Drink or hold.”
Saint-Joseph AOC
Syrah: 100%
Cork
Yes
Yes
